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  • Prokaryotic Cells: Structures and Key Components
    Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, so they do not have many of the structures found in eukaryotic cells. However, they do possess the following structures:

    * Cell membrane: The cell membrane is a phospholipid bilayer that surrounds the cell and controls the movement of materials into and out of the cell.

    * Cytoplasm: The cytoplasm is the gel-like substance that fills the cell and contains all of the cell's organelles.

    * Ribosomes: Ribosomes are the organelles that produce proteins.

    * DNA: DNA is the molecule that stores the cell's genetic information.

    * Plasmid: Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules that carry genes that are not essential for growth.

    * Flagellum and Pili: Flagellum are long, whip-like structures that help the cell move. Pili are short, hair-like structures that help the cell attach to surfaces.

    * Capsule: Some prokaryotic cells have a capsule, which is a sticky layer of polysaccharides that surrounds the cell and helps protect it from the environment.

    * Glycocalyx: Glycocalyx is a layer of carbohydrates that coats the outside of the cell membrane and is responsible for cell adhesion and protection.

    * Inclusion bodies: Inclusion bodies are structures that store nutrients and other materials.

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